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E150aFine

Plain caramel

Group: Colours

Harm level1 of 5No concern

In plain words

Plain caramel is made by heating sugar and gives foods a brown colour. You find it in baked goods, sauces, liqueurs and desserts.

Where you find it: sauces, baked goods, spirits

Our recommendation

No need to avoid it.

Possible risks and effects

  • No relevant risk known at normal intake.

For experts

Class I caramel, made by controlled heating of carbohydrates without ammonia or sulphite compounds. EFSA re-evaluated caramel colours in 2011 and set a group ADI, raising no safety concern for E150a.

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This information is educational and based on EFSA assessments and available studies; it does not replace medical advice. With allergies, intolerances or illness, follow your doctor’s advice.